How to Get a Truly Free Credit Report as soon as possible

* Visit the website annualcreditreport.com. Once you log on, you will be taken to one of the three credit bureaus--- depending upon which one you choose --- Experian, Equifax or TransUnion. There is no fee to access your report sice the website is federally mandated.

* Pay a nominal fee to purchase your credit score directly from the bureau. While the report is free, the score is not. The most important aspects of your credit report free, will be listed in the report, such as past due amounts, inquiries, critical information and more. You need to carefully check these items.